To make any of the syrups, add the fruit, water and sugar to a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over moderately medium heat and bring to a light simmer; cover the saucepan and cook for 10 minutes or so. The syrup is ready when the fruit has softened and the color of the syrup has changed. Mash the fruit with the back of a fork and pour the syrup through a sieve. Set the syrup aside and allow it to cool to room temperature.
To Assemble the Italian Sodas:
To assemble the drink, pour 1/4 cup of syrup in a glass, pour 1/4 cup half & half and top with a few splashes of sparkling water. Repeat with remaining Italian sodas.
Notes
Tips: 1. Use filtered water or bottled water for the syrups. I made a batch with unfiltered and oof, I could taste the terribleness. 2. This will absolutely work with frozen fruit, too! 3. If you live out of the U.S./Canada, you might have no idea what half & half is. You can make half & half by mixing together 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup milk.Milk Alternatives: Almond milk tastes great, if you're looking for a dairy alternative! Other milk alternatives that would work is light coconut milk, oat milk or soy milk.Equipment: Saucepan | SodaStream | Silicon Spatulas